Description: Common statewide in streams, ponds, and lakes. Channel catfish have a forked tail as does the blue catfish. The anal fin will be curved across the bottom on a channel catfish. Facts: Good scrappers, channel catfish are a favorite of many anglers, and when taken from clean waters are excellent table fare. Catfish feed more by taste and touch than by sight and rarely exceed 50 pounds.
Habitat: Adult fish are found near cover in larger pools and deep holes. Immature channel cats are more tolerant of fast current, frequent riffles and shallow water. Food sources: Channel catfish are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of organic matter, dead and alive. Some of the more common foods are fish, mussels, snails, insects, and crayfish.
Habitat & Range
Adult fish are found near cover in larger pools and deep holes. Immature channel cats are more tolerant of fast current, frequent riffles and shallow water. Food sources: Channel catfish are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of organic matter, dead and alive. Some of the more common foods are fish, mussels, snails, insects, and crayfish.
Life History
Spawning usually takes place in late May or early June when the water temperature reaches 75 degrees F. Hollow logs, overhanging underwater ledges or holes under mud banks are typical nesting places. Females lay about 10,000 eggs each. Males guard the eggs against intruders, including females. Eggs hatch in six to 10 days as determined by temperature. After hatching, fry are attended for a short time by the male as they feed in a dense school. Explore more Oklahoma Fish Photo by: Duane Raver Bass, Striped Hybrid ODWC Photo Plains Killifish ODWC Photo Blackside Darter Previous Next
License & Regulations
A valid Oklahoma fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 3-day, and annual). An Oklahoma fishing license also includes the privilege to fish for all species. Purchase online through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation website or at authorized license retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Description
Common statewide in streams, ponds, and lakes. Channel catfish have a forked tail as does the blue catfish. The anal fin will be curved across the bottom on a channel catfish. Facts: Good scrappers, channel catfish are a favorite of many anglers, and when taken from clean waters are excellent table fare. Catfish feed more by taste and touch than by sight and rarely exceed 50 pounds.
Habitat
Adult fish are found near cover in larger pools and deep holes. Immature channel cats are more tolerant of fast current, frequent riffles and shallow water. Food sources: Channel catfish are omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of organic matter, dead and alive. Some of the more common foods are fish, mussels, snails, insects, and crayfish.
Life Cycle
Spawning usually takes place in late May or early June when the water temperature reaches 75 degrees F. Hollow logs, overhanging underwater ledges or holes under mud banks are typical nesting places. Females lay about 10,000 eggs each. Males guard the eggs against intruders, including females. Eggs hatch in six to 10 days as determined by temperature. After hatching, fry are attended for a short time by the male as they feed in a dense school. Explore more Oklahoma Fish Photo by: Duane Raver Bass, Striped Hybrid ODWC Photo Plains Killifish ODWC Photo Blackside Darter Previous Next
Regulations
Oklahoma fishing regulations apply to Channel Catfish. A valid Oklahoma fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Check the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation Fishing Regulations for current rules.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Oklahoma fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-res | Link |
